Ava Monroe
Toenails growing upward is a condition known as vertical nails, and it's not uncommon. This could be due to the natural growth pattern of your toenails, or it could be caused by external factors such as ill-fitting shoes or profuse foot sweating. In some cases, upward toenail growth can be attributed to more complex medical issues, including onychogryphosis, a thickening of the nails due to injury or infection, or nail-patella syndrome (NPS), a rare genetic disorder. While toenails typically grow up to four times slower than fingernails, the growth rate of nails is influenced by various factors, including age, sex, season, exercise, diet, and
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cause | May be natural growth pattern, flat nail beds, anemia, lung issues, dietary issues, stress, damage to the nails, trauma, genetics, underlying health conditions, etc. |
| Prevention | Keep feet and nails clean and dry, trim nails frequently and correctly |
| Treatment | Use false nails, poly gel, acrylics, or hard gel to train the nail to grow more straight; address underlying health conditions |
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What You'll Learn
Toenails grow up to four times slower than fingernails
The growth rates of nails and claws vary both between species and within species. For example, badger claws are replaced approximately every four months while the claws of domestic cats are replaced every six to nine months. Age, nutrition, and even season have been cited as major determinants for differences in claw and nail growth, with slower growth in the old, the malnourished, or those in cold climates.
The rate of growth on the nails of an individual’s non-dominant hand is slower than the rate on the dominant hand, which is subject to more trauma. Similarly, nail biting increases the rate of nail growth.
Nails evolved from claws about 55 million years ago and are one of the features that distinguish primates. Nails grow continuously and begin in the nail matrix, the pale, half-moon-shaped section peeking out from under the cuticle.
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Toenails are generally subjected to less trauma than fingernails
Toenails and fingernails are made of the same material, keratin, and are formed in the same way. The matrix, which is located under the base of the nail, constantly produces new keratin that gathers at the nail plate and slowly pushes the nail forward, causing it to grow. About 90% of nail growth comes from the germinal matrix, while the remaining 10% comes from the sterile matrix, which is responsible for keeping the nail attached to the underlying skin.
However, it's important to note that toenails can be more susceptible to certain issues, such as fungal infections, which are more common in toenails than fingernails. This is because toenails are often confined to a dark, warm, and moist environment inside shoes, which is an ideal setting for fungal growth. Additionally, conditions like peripheral artery disease (PAD), which causes reduced blood flow to the legs and feet, can affect toenail growth.
While toenails generally experience less trauma, they can still be prone to issues such as ingrown toenails, which occur when the nail grows into the skin next to it, causing tenderness, redness, and even bleeding. Upward-growing toenails can also be more prone to ripping, which may expose the area to infection, so careful hygiene and regular trimming are important.
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Toenails take a beating from socks, shoes, and weight-bearing
Toenails that grow upward are not uncommon, and there are several reasons why this may be happening. One of the most common causes is chronic trauma or repetitive pressure on the toes. This could be due to ill-fitting shoes, stubbed toes, or sports-related impacts. The constant pressure and weight-bearing on the toes can cause the nail bed to become damaged, leading to upward nail growth.
Additionally, as we age, toenails naturally become thicker and more prone to abnormal growth. This can be exacerbated by poor nail care, such as neglecting to trim toenails regularly or using improper cutting techniques. Ingrown toenails, for example, can occur when nails are not cut straight across, leading to tenderness, redness, and even bleeding.
The choice of footwear can also play a significant role in toenail health. Wearing tight-fitting shoes or socks that constrict the toes can contribute to upward nail growth. It is important to choose comfortable and supportive footwear that does not place excessive pressure on the toes. This allows the toenails to grow without constant pressure or restriction.
Furthermore, underlying medical conditions can increase the likelihood of toenails growing upward. Certain conditions, such as circulatory issues, psoriasis, fungal infections, or diabetes, can affect nail health and growth patterns. Maintaining overall foot health and addressing any underlying conditions are crucial in managing toenail growth.
To mitigate the effects of these issues, it is recommended to practice good foot hygiene and nail care. This includes regularly trimming toenails, using appropriate cutting techniques, and keeping the feet clean and dry to prevent fungal infections. It is also advisable to wear comfortable and well-fitting shoes and socks that do not constrict the toes, reducing the pressure and impact on the toenails.
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Toenail growth can be stunted or slowed by injury
Toenails that grow upward are not uncommon, and there are several reasons why this may be happening. Firstly, it could be the natural way your nails grow. In some cases, it may be caused by underlying health issues such as anemia, lung issues, dietary problems, or stress/damage to the nails.
Toenail fungus is another common issue that can slow or stunt toenail growth. Fungal infections usually occur underneath the nail and begin at the tip, where you trim it. They can cause the nail to thicken and turn yellow or brown. Poor circulation can also lead to toenail growth slowing down or stopping altogether. This is because the tiny blood vessels in the nail bed need to receive adequate oxygenated blood from the arteries in the leg for continued nail growth. Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) is a common vascular condition that can restrict blood flow to the lower extremities, leading to slow toenail growth.
If you are concerned about changes in your toenail growth, it is important to consult a doctor or specialist to rule out any underlying health issues. Maintaining good foot and toenail hygiene is also crucial to prevent infections and other problems. This includes regularly inspecting your toenails, keeping your feet clean and dry, and trimming your nails frequently with strong, sharp nail clippers.
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Toenail abnormalities could be hereditary
Toenails that grow upward are not uncommon, and there are several reasons why this may occur. One possible explanation is that it is simply the natural way that your nails grow. Indeed, some people have always had upward-growing nails, and nail technicians refer to this shape as "ski jump nails".
However, upward-growing nails can also be a sign of underlying health issues. For example, it may be a sign of anaemia or iron deficiency, lung issues, dietary issues, or stress or damage to the nails. In some cases, vertically growing nails can be hereditary, and nail abnormalities can be passed down through genes, affecting the shape, thickness, or colour of the nails. Other potential causes of toenail abnormalities include nail trauma, infection, skin disease, nutritional deficiency, medication, and underlying medical conditions such as diabetes, psoriasis, or fungal infections.
If you are concerned about the appearance of your toenails, it is important to consult a doctor or podiatrist. They can assess your toenails and provide an accurate diagnosis, which is crucial for effective treatment. In the meantime, maintaining good foot and toenail hygiene is vital to prevent infection, especially as upward-growing toenails tend to rip more often. Keep your feet clean and dry, and trim your nails frequently using strong, sharp nail clippers. Cut each toenail straight across, leaving it a little long to prevent it from growing inward, and try to avoid cutting nails when they are wet.
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Frequently asked questions
Toenails that grow upward, also known as vertical nails, are not uncommon. This could be your toenails' natural growth pattern, or it could be caused by external factors such as tight shoes or profuse foot sweating.
In some cases, toenails growing upward can indicate more complex medical issues. For example, Onychogryphosis is a thickening of the nails due to injury or infection, often affecting the big toes. Nail Patella Syndrome (NPS) is a rare genetic disorder that can also cause nail abnormalities.
To prevent this issue, keep your feet clean and dry, and trim your nails regularly. Avoid going barefoot in public places like gyms and swimming pools, and always wear appropriate footwear such as flip-flops or slides.
If your toenails growing upward is accompanied by other issues such as depressed nail beds or any signs of infection, make an appointment to see your doctor. They can help determine if there are any underlying health concerns and provide appropriate treatment options.
